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Hello All- It’s been too long! I was just interviewed for a series about “successful” jewelry businesses and it left me thinking about so many things. I’m not the greatest at interviews,and it left me thinking and reflecting on what I didn’t have time to say,so I thought I would share more here. For those who don’t know, I have been in business as Jane Hollinger Jewelry since 1998 {!} and I started with the intent to be a handmade in the USA business using eco -friendly materials. At the time, it was not really talked about or stressed as a business model,and I certainly am not the greatest at talking about myself,but I am proud to say that after all these years,we still make everything in-house using recycled precious metals and HARMONY coded diamonds and ethically sourced stones. There were times when I felt like this model was becoming obsolete or not valued by buyers or customers, but I have stuck with it through thick and thin,and it has made me more committed than ever. I was asked a questions about growth and funding during the interview,and over the years I have had interested investors who based on my success and growth wanted to invest but their vision and my vision just didn’t match. In order to make more money,investors wanted me to make my line overseas and while that may have made my company more successful financially, I would not have remained true to myself or my initial vision. This is key–as a business, I can’t stress enough how important it is to remain true to yourself,and not compromise yourself where it matters most to you. I am a mother of 2 first, artist and designer second,and business person third. {order changes as needed} This means I make creative business decisions that hopefully don’t negatively impact the world and that work in my life for me. Money is wonderful, important and necessary, but it is not the be-all, end-all for me. Success means different things to different people, and for me,as a small business owner and designer, it’s not just HOW MUCH money my business is making, but more importantly, HOW my business is making money. So,all that said, I sign off with my thanks to all who have supported me over the years,and who have supported my work and appreciated my business model! Thanks to all my designer friends who “get it” and are in the trenches with me – you are amazing!